Had Surgery For Endocarditis. On Warfarin. How Long The Side Effects Of Medication Last After Stopping It?

Posted on Wed, 30 Oct 2013

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Wed, 30 Oct 2013 Answered on

Mon, 25 Nov 2013 Last reviewed on

Question : I had surgery on August 16 for endocarditis. I have been taking Warfarin from that date and will finish taking it, per the doctor, on November 18. How many days after I stop taking Warfarin will the side effects stop? Thank you Cliff Colnot

Answered by Dr. Benard Shehu (3 days later)

Brief Answer: Within 1 week, the side effects will stop... Detailed Answer: Hi Cliff, Please bare in mind that the effects of warfarin as a anti-coagulant will persistent up to 7 days after stopping it. Therefore, as the main side effects are related to risk of hemorrhage, then, after 3-4 days of stopping warfarin, you will be safe of major bleeding. If you are experiencing other less risky side effects (such as skin rash), after 7 days of stopping warfarin, they will disappear. Hope it answered to your question! Dr.Benard p.s. if you have more questions, please write back to me!

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar